The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) has initiated a collaboration with industry leaders to conduct trials for charging concepts of electric harbour craft. This strategic partnership aims to explore and evaluate the feasibility of implementing electric charging infrastructure within the port, with the goal of advancing sustainable and efficient maritime operations. By leveraging the expertise of industry leaders, MPA seeks to drive innovation and contribute to the development of environmentally friendly solutions for the maritime sector. This initiative underscores Singapore's commitment to embracing technological advancements and fostering a greener and more sustainable maritime industry.
The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) has selected the Pyxis Energy, Pyxis Maritime and SP Mobility partnership, Seatrium, and Yinson Electric to test their charging concepts for electric harbour craft (e-HC).
Partners and their Charging Concepts
The Pyxis and SP Group partnership will test their land-based direct current (DC) charging concept, using their fleet of e-HCs, which will serve as an offtake for the charging infrastructure.
Seatrium
Seatrium will explore the potential of a mobile charging concept involving floating energy production units that can be transported and moored at required locations as part of a “sea grid” to provide electricity to e-HC. The electricity supplied can potentially be generated from renewables.
Yinson Electric
Yinson GreenTech will test their high power (350-450kW) DC Charger, to prepare for larger electric vessels with greater battery capacities in the future. The higher speed charging concept can allow testing of system communication protocols to optimize electron flows to ensure safe and efficient charging.
Deployment and Timeline
The DC charging model proposed by the Pyxis and SP Mobility partnership will be deployed at Marina South Pier from March 2024 to March 2026, with a possible extension of another year.
The Seatrium and Yinson concepts will be enhanced further with support from MPA & research institutes ahead of implementation at the possible sites identified earlier.
Future Plans and Implications
Insights from the data will form the foundation for developing a national e-HC charging infrastructure masterplan, implementation plan and standards, to support e-HC operations in Singapore, said MPA CEO Eng Dih Teo.
